Looking for a plant that just won’t quit? You’ve come to the right place. Geraniums are the marathon runners of the garden world—they start blooming early and keep those vibrant colors coming all season long. When they’re happy, their stamina is hard to beat. Plus, they aren’t just for balcony boxes; they bring a fragrant, colorful punch to any sunny spot.
Frost is the Finish Line
Geraniums are definitely not fans of frost or chilly weather. They really only hit their stride as “blooming machines” once temperatures stay consistently above 50°F (10°C). If you wake them up from winter dormancy the right way, you can see your first blooms as early as May. From there, the flower power usually doesn’t stop until at least October. If we get a particularly mild “Indian Summer,” they might even give you an encore performance well into November!
More Sun Means More Flowers
Every geranium (which, fun fact, are technically called *Pelargoniums*) has the potential for a long flowering season. But to unlock that potential, you have to nail the location first. Geraniums crave full sun and plenty of light. If the foliage gets too thick and bushy, don’t be afraid to thin it out a bit. Otherwise, the leaves can shade the flower buds, preventing them from ever popping out.
Pro Tip:
There are so many geranium varieties on the market today, featuring stunning colors ranging from deep reds to bright bicolors. If you want your garden to smell as good as it looks, make sure to pick up a scented geranium variety.
How to Keep the Blooms Coming
To keep a geranium pumping out new flowers, it needs a little help from its favorite gardener. Here’s how to make sure that bloom cycle never hits a snag:
- Plant your geraniums in loose, well-draining potting soil.
- Water regularly, but let the soil dry out slightly between drinks.
- Try to keep the water off the leaves and flowers.
- Avoid “wet feet” (standing water), or the buds might dry up and drop off.
- A spot with a roof or overhang to protect them from heavy rain is ideal.
- Give them a nutrient boost once a week.
- Fertilize with a liquid fertilizer specifically formulated for flowering plants.
- Deadhead (pinch off) spent blooms as soon as they fade.
Pro Tip:
Avoid fertilizers that are super high in nitrogen. Nitrogen is great for growing lush green leaves, but it can actually result in fewer flowers.
What if Your Geranium Isn’t Blooming?
If you’ve given your plant the sunniest spot on the porch and followed all the rules, but your geranium still isn’t blooming, it’s time for a closer look. Check the stems and the undersides of the leaves—your plant might be dealing with a disease or some uninvited garden pests.
